In Ireland, President Mary McAleese met with Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing on Monday.

McAleese said she was impressed by the achievements of the Chinese people during her visit to the country last year. She also pledged her country's continued efforts to strengthen contacts and boost cooperation.

On the same day, Li Zhaoxing also met with Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern who said, that in recent years, Ireland and China have seen growing contact in the various areas of politics, economy and trade, science and technology, education and culture.

Ahern expressed confidence of an expansion of relations with China, particularly as they prepare for the upcoming visit of Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

Li Zhaoxing was in Dublin for the sixth Asia-Europe Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

Source: CCTV News